Wednesday
The American Nuclear Society (ANS) holds an Annual Conference every year to bring together leaders and professionals across the nuclear science and technology landscape As an avid follower of nuclear news, I always look forward to seeing what ANS has in store for its upcoming conference Since we’re currently in 2025, I thought it would be interesting to take a look back at ANS’s most recent Annual Conference from last year in 2024.
Overview of the 2024 ANS Annual Conference
ANS’s 2024 Annual Conference took place from June 10-13 2024 in Orlando Florida. The conference was held at the beautiful Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld resort.
As expected the 2024 conference gathered an impressive list of over 1500 nuclear professionals, researchers, and industry experts. Attendees came from all over the US and the world to take part in this premier nuclear event.
The conference featured 4 days packed with technical sessions, plenary speakers, exhibits, committee meetings, and social events. Some of the topics covered included advanced reactors, nuclear fuel, radiation detection, nuclear policy, public acceptance, and workforce development.
Highlights from the Technical Program
The technical program at ANS conferences always features cutting-edge research and insights from experts across the nuclear sector. Here are some of my highlights from the 2024 technical sessions:
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Several sessions covered progress on advanced reactor designs like molten salt reactors, high-temperature gas reactors, and microreactors. It’s fascinating to see how much innovation is happening in advanced reactors.
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There were interesting sessions on using radiation and isotopes for medical treatments and imaging. The intersection of nuclear technology and healthcare is an exciting field.
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I enjoyed the updates on new technologies for spent fuel management, including reprocessing and partitioning methods. Managing spent fuel continues to be an important issue.
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Sessions on using nuclear power to produce hydrogen and desalinate water provided insight into new applications for nuclear energy.
Engaging Plenary Speakers
In addition to the technical sessions, ANS conferences feature high-profile plenary speakers who provide perspectives on major topics and issues facing the nuclear community.
The opening plenary speaker for the 2024 conference was Dr. Rita Baranwal, the Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy at the US Department of Energy. She discussed the DOE’s priorities around developing advanced reactors, extending the life of existing plants, and deploying microreactors.
On the second day, Jacopo Buongiorno, Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering at MIT, gave an interesting talk on the future of nuclear in a decarbonized world. He examined challenges like economics and policy that impact nuclear growth.
I always think the Wednesday plenary speaker is a highlight, and the 2024 conference featured Kirsty Gogan, Co-founder of Energy for Humanity. She gave an inspiring talk on communicating the benefits of nuclear power and gaining public acceptance.
Exhibit Hall and Networking Opportunities
A major benefit of attending the ANS Annual Conference is access to the expansive exhibit hall showcasing the latest technologies and services from nuclear companies. Roaming the aisles and stopping to chat with industry experts is an invaluable experience.
The conference also provides networking opportunities through luncheons, receptions, and social events. I enjoyed connecting with other young professionals in nuclear at the lively ANS President’s Reception. Conferences are such a great place to meet people and exchange ideas face-to-face.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 ANS Annual Conference
Based on the engaging program and memorable experience of the 2024 ANS Annual Conference, I’m really excited to see what ANS has in store for 2025. The next conference will take place June 15-18, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
I’m hoping there will be sessions on MSR development, advanced nuclear fuel designs, applications of radiation in quantum computing, policy innovations like nuclear tax credits, and more technologies like high-tech sensors for reactors. And I can’t wait to hear from inspirational plenary speakers and reconnect with colleagues in the exhibit hall.
The ANS Annual Conference is the premier gathering for the nuclear community. I learn so much every year from the technical insights, industry innovations, and thoughtful perspectives. ANS events are vital for exchanging information and strengthening the future of nuclear science and technology. I’m already counting down to the 2025 conference!
Let’s hang in the basement
We really love our neighborhood. We also really love the way that restaurants can foster connection and cultivate a special kind of joy. So we decided to create a space where our community can always feel at home.
Our menu is guided by the best ingredients that we can get our hands on in every season. We like to try new flavors and make things different, but the quality of our ingredients is always the most important thing to us.
And drinks? We’ve got plenty. Well-balanced drinks, great wines from small growers, and a lot of different types of beer, cider, and amari on tap.
No frills, nothing gimmicky. Just really delicious food that you can have fun eating. Drop in and hang out, we’d love to meet you!.
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